Kildare County Council to host Equine Summit at Curragh Racecourse
Spotlighting Career Pathways, Innovation and Skills for the Future of Ireland's Equine Industry
On Thursday, 5 March 2026, the renowned Curragh Racecourse will welcome The Equine Summit, an event proudly hosted by Kildare County Council. The Summit will bring together leading figures from the equine, education, and enterprise industries to highlight the exciting career opportunities, innovation and skills development available for the next generation.
Hosting the Summit in County Kildare, widely regarded as Ireland’s epicenter for thoroughbred and sport horses, demonstrates Kildare County Council’s strong commitment to nurturing growth and collaboration across the equine sector. The event’s purpose is to build collaboration between industry professionals, educators, and young people exploring future career possibilities in this thriving field.
Participants will benefit from keynote speeches by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Haydon TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, and Nina Carbery, Member of European Parliament. Panel discussions and interactive sessions will explore vital themes including:
- Career pathways and education in the equine industry
- Engaging youth and developing skills
- Innovation and sustainability throughout the sector
- Collaboration to support the future workforce
Ireland’s equine industry is a major contributor to both rural communities and the nation’s global standing, supporting employment, enterprise, and development throughout the country.
Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive, Kildare County Council, highlighted the sector’s economic impact: “The Equine Industry is a vital part of Ireland’s prosperity, generating an estimated €3.4 billion each year and sustaining 75,000 jobs nationwide. Here in Kildare, the industry’s influence is especially felt, with the county serving as a central hub for breeding, training, and equestrian services, supporting local growth and community well-being.”
Councillor Carmel Kelly, Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, emphasised its cultural and economic significance: “The Equine Industry is integral to Ireland's heritage, economy, and reputation worldwide. From breeding and racing to education, research, and tourism, the sector offers rewarding careers and shapes the cultural identity of Ireland and Kildare alike.”
The focus of the Equine Summit fits seamlessly with Kildare County Council’s mission to encourage innovation, education, and enterprise within the equine sector, inspiring young people to explore the many professional pathways it offers.
Brendan McArdle, Advertising Sales and Marketing Manager at The Irish Field and well-known RTÉ commentator in showjumping and horseracing, will moderate the event.
The Event is FREE to attend and full details can be found here: https://www.localenterprise.ie/kildare/training-events/online-bookings/equine-summit-2026.html
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